New to Treatment?

Whether you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, the most common emotion associated with seeking treatment for the first time is anxiety. We understand that the amount of questions you have and the emotions they evoke may feel overwhelming.

Will treatment work?

Is it the right decision?

Is the problem significant enough that it requires treatment?

Is treatment safe?

How much does it cost?

What substance abuse treatment is best?

The first step is to know that your questions and feelings are normal.
The next step is to talk to someone about them.

If you want to talk to our professionals about treatment options at Mountainside or if you have questions about treatment in general, please call us. We are happy to assist you in getting the help you or a loved one needs.

Ways to Manage Chronic Pain as a Sober Person

Over 100 million Americans suffer from chronic pain, and if you are one of them, you know the profound effect it can have on someone’s daily life. Not only does being in a constant state of pain cause many individuals to become irritable and frustrated but it can also negatively impact their physical and mental health.

Some of the side effects of untreated chronic pain include depression, anxiety, insomnia, changes in appetite, and an increased risk of stroke. One of the most common ways to treat chronic pain is with prescription medications. But for individuals in recovery, this is often not an option.

Fortunately, those in recovery who are suffering with chronic pain have several holistic therapies that can provide them with the relief they seek, without risking their sobriety. So, if you’re looking for a natural way to heal your body:

Try Acupuncture

Various studies have determined that acupuncture is an effective way to manage muscle aches and chronic back pain, reduce migraines, and relieve pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. So, put your skepticism aside and give this traditional Chinses healing technique a try.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals gain a better understanding of how their thoughts influence their behaviors. Doctors suggest that CBT can help those with chronic pain by helping them address the psychological effects of chronic pain, such as depression, anger, and anxiety.

Exercise

If you suffer from chronic pain, exercise is probably the last thing on your mind, but research has shown that individuals with chronic pain who exercise regularly report less pain and increased activity. This is because exercise keeps you in shape and keeps your muscles strong. Speak with your doctor, and if approved, try slowly incorporating exercises such as walking, stretching, light strength training, and yoga into your daily life.
Be mindful of your pain and don’t push yourself too hard. And remember, start slow, always stretch, warm up, and cool down.

Chronic pain, particularly back pain, often means spending hours sitting – or laying – on the couch, eating way too many snacks. But research says that what you eat can actually have an effect on the amount of pain you feel. So, put down the soda, Oreos, and chips and trade them for foods that could help alleviate your chronic pain.

Remember, extra weight means extra pain, so think moderation next time you reach for sweets.

Get a Massage

Massages are not just for the spa. Massage therapy can significantly help with pain management by addressing spasms, soreness, stiffness, and helping your body rehabilitate from injuries. It also increases serotonin, which reduces pain naturally, and decreases stress, anxiety, and depression.

Practice Mindful Meditation

Studies show that incorporating just three 20-minute sessions of mindful meditation into your week can make a difference in how you perceive pain. According to Alex Zautra, professor of clinical psychology at Arizona State University, this is because “pain is not only a physical experience but an emotional one.” Meditation reduces stress which eases the nervous systems’ reaction that increases pain.

Speak with an advisor in confidence.

New to Treatment?

Whether you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, the most common emotion associated with seeking treatment for the first time is anxiety. We understand that the amount of questions you have and the emotions they evoke may feel overwhelming.

Will treatment work?

Is it the right decision?

Is the problem significant enough that it requires treatment?

Is treatment safe?

How much does it cost?

What substance abuse treatment is best?

The first step is to know that your questions and feelings are normal.
The next step is to talk to someone about them.

If you want to talk to our professionals about treatment options at Mountainside or if you have questions about treatment in general, please call us. We are happy to assist you in getting the help you or a loved one needs.